ORESTO by Secret Association of American Magicians

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ORESTO was a magic periodical from Syracuse, New York which started around 1917 and lasted into the 1920s. It described itself as “The official publication of the Society of American Amateur Magicians. A secret society paper published for its members only.”

Beginning with Vol. 1 No. 7 it became official organ of their new name Secret Association of American Magicians.

The first issue was dated September, 1917 with a cover stating “Advertising Edition” along the top. Apparently used to advertise the society and its publication. The first regular issue came out in November, 1917 with three separate versions that included separate trick sections (center pages) suitable for the three different types of members (Junior, Amateur and Professional). The idea was abandoned after only one issue. The next issue, February,1918 was thus entitled “Combined Edition” (as were those that followed)

Issues

September 1917 – Advertising Edition
November, 1917 – Junior, Amateur and Professional Editions
February, 1918 – Combined Edition
July, 1918 – Combined Edition
November, 1918 – Vol. l, No. 4.
May -June l919 – Vol. 1., Nos. 5-6 (“June” on cover and “May” on last page)
March, 1920 – Vol. 1, No. 7 (Wizards’ Club Special)
August, 1920 – Vol. 1, No. 8